EA launches consultation on water resources planning guideline updates
The Environment Agency (EA) has launched a consultation on proposed updates to the Water Resources Planning Guideline (WRPG), which outlines the expectations for water companies in preparing statutory water resources management plans. These plans, revised every five years, must demonstrate how companies will ensure a secure and environmentally sustainable water supply over a minimum 25-year period. The consultation seeks views on whether the updated guideline enables the development of resilient and environmentally protective plans, and includes the Environmental Destination planning guidance as a related document for comment. The final version of the WRPG is expected in Spring 2026, ahead of the next planning cycle, with draft plans due for consultation in 2028. The consultation closes on 5 December 2025.